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Earthmover tyres inspection: tyre checking and maintenance
Tyres are subject to stress from the machines they are mounted on and the roads they drive on. Not only does the maintenance of the roads they operate on affect tyre performance, but so does the way the machines they are mounted on are maintained. In this article, you will discover the importance of thorough inspection of earthmoving machine tyres for drivers and operators, tyre longevity and equipment longevity. You will also learn the different steps to follow to optimise the inspection process.
Why earthmover tyre inspection is important?
Regular inspection of earthmover tyres is essential for maintaining safety and efficiency of heavy machinery operations. These inspections are necessary to identify any unusual wear and detect potential damage early on. By performing routine checks, operators can address issues before they develop into more serious problems that could compromise both the equipment's performance and the safety of drivers and operators, leading to premature removal.
And it is important to remember that any tyre showing signs of damage should never be returned to service. This includes issues such as deformed bead or visible bead wire, separations between components, visible cable cords, damage from petroleum products or corrosive particles, marbling or abrasion of the interior rubber resulting from any running at insufficient pressure.
Earthmover tyre inspection checklist
To ensure quality of the inspection and care for earthmover tyres, discover the different main steps through our checklist:
Before tyre inspection :
- Ensure the machine is stationary and secured before inspection.
- Whatever type of inspection is to be carried out, it is preferable to work around a vehicle that is not loaded.
- All technicians carrying out vehicle inspections must wear the following personal protection equipment (hard hat, protective glasses, vest or safety jacket with reflective strips, gloves, safety boots or shoes, ...)
- Wheel torque must be checked in accordance with the machine manufacturer’s recommendations.
Visual and Physical Checks:
- Any perforations, cuts or visible distortion of the tread, sidewalls or flange area must be the subject of a thorough examination of the tyre by a tyre professional. It is the same for any damage to the rim.
Wear Assessment:
- Check your earthmover tyre wear at several points on the tyre using a tyre depth gauge or by looking for signs of wear on the tread (noted on the sidewall by a symbol when present).
- If the legal or technical limit for wear has been reached, the tyre must be removed and replaced.
- If there is abnormal wear or a difference in wear between two tyres on the same axle, a tyre professional should be consulted.
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Tyre pressure Check:
- Check the earthmover tyre pressure; ensure it meets the manufacturer’s recommended specifications. If tyres are fitted with a pressure sensor, like MICHELIN MEMS solutions, they can be checked remotely. To know more on this topic, please, consult the latest Michelin Earthmover Databook or contact your Michelin representative.
Alignment Check:
- Verify the alignment of the tyres to ensure proper handling and reduce uneven wear. Possible alignment faults:
- Toe-in: when the distance between the front of the wheels is less than that between the rear of the wheels.
- Toe-out: when the distance between the rear of the wheels is less than that between the front of the wheels.
Valve and Accessories Check:
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Each time the machine is inspected, check that the valve cap is in good condition. If in doubt, replace it.
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Inspect any accessories or tools for proper condition—dispose of any damaged items.
Professional MICHELIN Consultation:
- Contact a tyre professional if any damage, abnormal wear or a difference in wear between two tyres on the same axle is detected.
- Schedule regular professional evaluations based on usage conditions to make a close inspection
Earthmover tyre inspection - Frequently Asked Questions
The most important factor when operating an earthmover tyre is to inspect it regularly to ensure there is no deterioration and that the tyre pressure is correct to ensure safery of your drivers and operators.
The cost of an earthmover tyre inspection depends on the service provider and the complexity of the inspection.
The right frequency of earthmover tyre inspection typically depends on the operating conditions and usage, but it is generally recommended to conduct inspections at least once a week or before each significant job.
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